Riot and Arson in Chingola During Presidential Visit
Chingola, Zambia – November 8, 2025: A presidential visit by President Hakainde Hichilema to Chingola District turned violent on Saturday. A portion of the crowd became unruly, leading to acts of arson, looting, and vandalism targeting both government and private properties.
Incident Details
The unrest started around 14:50 at Chiwempala Market where the President was speaking to local residents. A group in the crowd began breaking into shops, stealing goods. Police efforts to control the situation were met with aggression as the mob advanced toward the presidential address area.
Security Measures and Escalation
For security reasons, President Hichilema was promptly evacuated and escorted to the Chikola Secondary School landing grounds. Despite this, the mob pursued the motorcade and threw stones and other objects at government vehicles.
- Superintendent Lloyd Kanondo, 48, stated that a white Toyota Land Cruiser (registration ZP 2537 B) was overturned and set on fire by the crowd.
- Police fired ten warning shots to try to disperse the rioters, but tensions worsened.
Damage Assessment
The extent of the destroyed government property is still under evaluation.
"A white Toyota Land Cruiser, registration ZP 2537 B, was overturned and set ablaze by the mob," confirmed Superintendent Lloyd Kanondo.
Author's summary: The presidential visit to Chingola erupted in violent riots involving arson and looting, forcing a security evacuation and causing significant property damage.